The CEO's Contractual Wife

Chapter 160

Olivia

The following morning dawned bright and clear. I was up early, reviewing my notes on the Thompson Hotels project and mentally preparing for our meeting with Andrew Thompson.

Alexander had arranged for us to meet at The Terraces, an exclusive restaurant in Beverly Hills known for its impeccable service and discretion.

I carefully selected a navy blue dress that was professional yet flattering. I paired it with modest heels and subtle jewelry, as I wanted to look poised and confident.

“Ready?” Alexander asked, appearing in the doorway of our bedroom. He looked impeccable in a charcoal suit that emphasized his broad shoulders.

I nodded, smoothing down my dress one last time.

Alexander’s eyes softened as he approached me. “You look beautiful. And more importantly, you know this project better than anyone. Thompson would be a fool to go with any other proposal.”

His confidence in me was reassuring. “Thanks. Let’s go show him that.”

The drive to The Terraces was quiet, and both of us were lost in our thoughts. The morning traffic moved surprisingly well, and we arrived at the restaurant with time to spare.

The Terraces lived up to its reputation. Lush greenery surrounded elegant outdoor seating areas, while the interior featured soaring ceilings and tasteful artwork. A host immediately recognized Alexander and led us to a private dining area with a view of the gardens.

“Mr. Carter,” Andrew Thompson rose from his seat as we approached, extending his hand. “Punctual as always.”

“Mr. Thompson,” Alexander greeted him with a firm handshake. “Thank you for meeting with us on such short notice.”

Andrew turned to me with a warm smile. “Mrs. Carter, lovely to see you again.”

our drink orders. Andrew and Alexander

must say,” Andrew began once the server had departed, “I was surprised to receive your call yesterday. I thought our discussions

why I wanted to speak with you. We understand there’s been a

“News

smoothly. “Especially when it concerns

drinks, momentarily pausing the conversation. I took the opportunity to study Andrew’s expression. He seemed neither uncomfortable nor particularly

taking a sip of his coffee. “We received an unexpected proposal from Penelope Langford. Quite comprehensive,

in my shoulders. “I wasn’t aware Ms. Langford’s firm had expertise in hotel

Andrew admitted. “But she’s partnered with Horizon Media for this

tightened almost

to consider an alternative proposal?” I asked, keeping my tone curious rather than defensive. “I thought our presentation addressed all

Carter. Your proposal was exceptional. But as a businessman, I’d be remiss not

course,” I nodded. “Competitive analysis is

direction after a project has been initially approved. The contract your team signed with Carter Enterprises

haven’t transferred the project to Ms. Langford. We’re simply reviewing

“But in the interest of transparency, I wanted

straight shooter. That’s what I’ve always respected about

mention that Penelope will be joining us shortly. I

question was clearly

smoothly. “In fact, I welcome

ex–fiancée while defending my work wasn’t how I’d planned to spend my morning, but I refused to show

rebrand proposal is innovative

I find myself in a curious position. Two excellent proposals with

near the entrance caught my attention. A woman was being escorted to our table by the maitre d‘, and even from a distance, I could

her shoulders. She wore a cream–colored designer suit and stilettos that added several inches to her already impressive